Record prices and Gaudi: The 622nd goat auction in Deidesheim!

Record prices and Gaudi: The 622nd goat auction in Deidesheim!

Deidesheim, Deutschland - Yesterday the 622nd goat auction took place in front of the old town hall in Deidesheim and once again caused enthusiasm among the spectators. The tradition of the goat auction, which originated in 1534, is a permanently anchored cultural event that has now been included in the "nationwide list of intangible cultural heritage", such as Pfalz-Express reported. The event fell on Pentecost Tuesday, June 10, 2025, and formed the ceremonial conclusion of the Pentecost weekend in Deidesheim.

The auction was directed by auctioneer Markus Wahl, who encouraged the audience to actively participate with a lot of skill. Two women, Marija Riesterer and Stephanie Spengel, were most successful and increased the goat from Michael IV to a record sum. This not only underlines the popularity of the festival, but also the competitive spirit of the participants. The main activity of the auction took place on the south side of the square and ended two minutes before 6 p.m. when the bells of the St. Ulrich Church rang and thus officially ended the auction.

historical background and tradition

The billy goat auction is much more than just a sales event; It has historical roots and was originally intended as a symbolic interest for a pasture law from the city of Lambrecht to Deidesheim. Historical disputes between the two cities that go back to Napoleon Bonaparte have shaped the event. Every year a tribute is handed over, which usually has to meet numerous quality criteria, such as being hurt and well-shaped, such as Wine festivals of the Palatinate

At 5:30 a.m. the Bock is handed over to the local border, followed by a three -hour march, in which the accompanying person is offered wine. At 10:00 a.m. there is a reception by dignitaries, primary school children and onlookers. According to the assessment of the billy goat and a positive assessment, the bride and groom get wine and a cheese bread again. The subsequent wine festival, which started in the wineries on the Pentecost weekend, is accompanied by a historical game with folkloric and musical elements that starts at 3:00 p.m.

culture and community

The hill -up bock auction is a lively example of the Palatinate community culture and is now perceived in a larger context as part of the intangible cultural heritage. Since 2021, the Palatinate Forest hut culture with over 80 managed huts has also been included in this directory. These huts stand for nature experience, hospitality and social cohesion in the region. The Palatinate can now show a total of five recognized living traditions that strengthen their cultural identity, including the German wine culture, which was recognized in 2021 In summary, it can be said that the goat auction in Deidesheim is not only an exciting event, but also has an important cultural influence on the region. The mixture of tradition, community and festive character guarantees that this old custom will remain alive in the future.